Borage

Borage (also known as starflower) is a hardy, waterwise herb that grows to a height of 60-100cm. It has a host of culinary uses, but is predominantly cultivated for its high gamma-lineolinic acid (GLA) content. (GLA is recognised as a natural remedy for PMS.) It produces masses of star-shaped blue flowers and tends to spread out extensively – so either give it lots of space, or be prepared to cut it back regularly.

Planting Tips :

• For best results, grow borage in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
• Dig up the soil well and work in plenty of compost. Sow the seeds into the soil and leave them uncovered – they need light in order to germinate. Water well.
• Once seedlings form, thin them out to about 30cm apart.
• Borage is an annual plant, but it produces new seeds and will grow again from scratch without much intervention on your part.

Uses :

• Borage is the highest plant-based source of GLA – approximately 20%. Make a tea using the leaves and flowers to help alleviate the symptoms of PMS, menopause and hot flushes.
• The flowers, which have a honey-like taste, are one of the only edible blue plants. They are often used to garnish desserts.
• The leaves, which have a cucumber-like taste, are often used in salads and to add flavour to egg dishes. In Poland they are used to flavour pickled gherkins.